Host of BBC Radio 1's Dance Party, Danny Howard, joins us for a catch up on all things summer, holidays and music. After joining the station back in 2012 as one of its youngest ever presenters, Danny has progressed through the ranks to become one of the UK's most-loved radio hosts...
And this summer is set to be one of his busiest yet. You can catch him at Amnesia in Ibiza on Mondays and BCM Mallorca in Magalluf on Tuesdays!
Hey Danny, thanks for taking the time to sit down and chat to us here at VIBE, let's get into it...
Tell us about Radio 1, how are you enjoying Dance Party?
"It was just the other day I was deeping how much I still love doing Radio 1 12 years in! Officially starting the weekend every Friday at 6pm, playing the biggest dance tunes on the planet is an absolute dream. I honestly live for doing that show."
What are your ultimate summer songs?
"If we’re going current, this year has to be Jamie XX & Honey Dijon - Baddy On The Floor. Everything Jamie does is timeless and it gives me great memories of seeing him at Glasto this year. Honey is one of my favourite DJs so it’s a winning combo on one record.
Classic summer song, you just can’t beat Armand Van Helden - I Want Your Soul. Some might say overplayed as it’s had a resurgence over the last year or so but it never fails and works pretty much anywhere!"
How's summer 2024 looking for you? We see you’re back at BCM and Amnesia...
"I mean, what a start to the week, Ibiza Monday into Majorca Tuesday. Sometimes when I’m getting that flight between the islands, I can’t believe my luck. So far, both parties have been incredible, great energy, amazing DJs and two of the most iconic clubs in the world. You really need to get involved if you haven’t already."
Where’s your go-to summer holiday destination?
"Ibiza! I’m not just saying that because of my work but outside of the clubs, there’s really no place like it. Driving around, exploring beaches, some of the best restaurants and the energy is like nowhere else. There’s something magical about those sunsets too…"
Are you a Love Island fan? Be honest!
"By default because my girlfriend watches it so it’s, ya know, ‘just on’ ;). I guess it’s hard not to get invested in the storylines that unfold when it’s in front of you so much."
What’s your holiday vibe? Chilled? Party?
"Both! Obviously I spend a lot of time in the party with my DJing but when I’m with my close circle of friends, it’s a whole different vibe. Getting involved is in my DNA but I do also love rolling down to the beach for maximum chill, under the umbrella of course, I have typical Brit abroad skin!"
Any hidden gems in Majorca you can tell us about?
"Ooo so many places but this year, I’ll give you my fave two. Wellies in Portals for a nice meal. It’s a bit of a classic for those in the know but I went for my birthday and it was brilliant, I even got a free cake haha! A place I always can rely on for a quick, big feed is Blackbeards on the Calvia beachfront. Super casual, nothing fancy but proper barbecue food!"
What has been your career highlight so far?
"Radio wise, it has to be getting the flagship dance show on Radio 1. To follow in the footsteps of Annie Mac and Pete Tong is a huge honour and one I never take for granted. DJ’ing, it probably has to be playing NYE in Sydney, Australia alongside my DJ hero, Carl Cox. I had my closest friends there and it still blows my mind that playing music can take you to the other side of the world. What a moment!"
How do you feel performing at big events like NYE? Does it feel like you’re missing out or you’re part of a bigger party?
"Performing at big events is what makes your mark as a DJ. I love playing small, intimate venues but the bigger venues and events are almost a bit like a shop window in terms of exposing yourself to a mass audience. They’re important to keep evolving as an artist."
Fave ever performance venue?
"BCM in Majorca has got to be up there because it’s one of the original superclubs. It's always fun and when it’s rockin (like every Tuesday ;) ), there really is no atmosphere like it. It’s like playing a festival but in a club environment, I always have a great time!"
Three things you pack for every holiday?
"Factor 50, Mont Blanc Explorer and a photo of my dog, Diego. I miss him terribly. Haha."
Describe your holiday style...
"Three days, beach, all the carbs and chilled with a sprinkle of chaos. I’m a workaholic so after three days, I get twitchy!"
Quickfire questions...
Beach or pool?
"Beach!"
Beer or cocktail?
"Cocktail, spicy marg if you’re buying."
Sunrise or sunset?
"Sunsets are magical, Sunrises mean I’ve hit it too hard."
Sightseeing or sunbathing?
"Sunbathing."
Michelin-starred or street food?
"Street food as I prefer to be full after I eat!"
In three words, describe your summer vibe...
"On The Move!"
Thanks Danny, have a great summer!
You can catch Danny playing at Amnesia and BCM Mallorca throughout the summer, and follow him on Instagram to keep up to date with what he's up to!
Posted: 1st Aug 2024.